Loading
SSRI·Psychiatry - Antidepressants
Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD
Max Dose
60 mg/day
Half-life
21 h
Withdrawal
SEVERE
Weight Gain
HIGH RISK
Overview
The most sedating, weight-gaining, and anticholinergic of all the SSRIs. Highly effective for severe anxiety, but plagued by a horrific withdrawal syndrome and terrible side effects.
Maximum Dose
Max 60 mg/day (Max 50 mg for Panic Disorder).
Clinical Focus
Has the shortest half-life and no active metabolites. Missing a single pill causes severe 'brain zaps' and withdrawal.
Bottom Line
Paroxetine is an SSRI effective for depression and anxiety disorders, but has the worst discontinuation syndrome of all SSRIs and significant anticholinergic effects.
Brand Names
Aropax, Paxtine
Oral Routes
Tablets (20 mg). Controlled Release (12.5 mg, 25 mg).
Prescribing & PBS
Unrestricted General Benefit (S4).
Primary
Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD.
Clinical Place
Largely relegated to 3rd-line SSRI therapy due to weight gain and withdrawal risks. Still used for very severe, refractory anxiety.